Colon cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that targets the colon and rectum. Although it is among the leading causes of cancer deaths worldwide, it is also one of the most preventable cancers.

Research indicates that early screening and detection of this cancer increases the chances of successful treatment. By adopting healthy habits, you can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer and decrease your risk of death. Here’s what you need to know:.

Causes and Symptoms: Understanding Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is caused by malignant cells that grow in the walls of the colon and rectum, leading to tumors. The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, but several factors increase the risk of developing the disease:.

Age: Most people who develop colon cancer are over 50 years old.
Familial history: People who have a family history of colon cancer are at higher risk of developing this disease.
Obesity: People who are overweight or obese have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.
Unhealthy diet: A diet low in fiber and high in fat, red meat, and processed foods can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity increases the risk of colon cancer.
Smoking and alcohol consumption: Both smoking and heavy drinking increase the risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer can be asymptomatic in the early stages. In later stages, symptoms may include:.

Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Unintentional weight loss
Fatigue and weakness

Reducing the Risk of Colon Cancer

Although colon cancer can be deadly, it is also among the most preventable cancers. By following some simple steps, you can reduce your risk of developing this disease and increase the chances of detecting it early:.

1. Get Screened Regularly

Screening tests can detect colon cancer in its early stages, making treatment more effective. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that adults start regular screening for colon cancer at age 45.

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may need to start screening earlier.

Screening tests include:.

Colonoscopy: A test that allows the doctor to look inside the colon and rectum for any signs of cancer or abnormal growths.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): A test that checks for blood in the stool, which may be an early sign of colon cancer.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A test that allows the doctor to look inside the rectum and lower part of the colon for any signs of cancer or abnormal growths.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Weight

A healthy diet can reduce the risk of colon cancer significantly. The American Cancer Society recommends a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight can lower the risk of colon cancer, as being overweight increases the likelihood of developing the disease.

3. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can improve overall health and reduce the risk of colon cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week.

4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption increase the risk of colon cancer. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

Treating Colon Cancer

If diagnosed early, colon cancer is highly treatable. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer:.

Stage 0: If detected in its earliest stages, colon cancer can be completely cured through surgery.
Stage I and II: Surgery is the primary treatment option, and chemotherapy may be used to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
Stage III: Surgery followed by chemotherapy is the preferred treatment option for this stage of colon cancer.
Stage IV: In this stage, the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Treatment may include surgery to remove cancerous growths, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a preventable disease.

By adopting healthy habits such as regular screening, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, you can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer and increase your chances of successful treatment.